Editor's Note: It has been a morning of sidetracks as I've been preparing this post. I love-love LOVE the name Lafy Eldridge so I went to the census to see who Lafy really was. I couldn't find him but I a found a very disturbing story instead. Mrs. Jennie Eldrige born in 1870, married, mother of 4. She was 29 when I first noticed her and clicked to find the name of her husband expecting Lafy to show up. Instead I found a full page of names all living with her which can only mean one thing--institution. Indeed, Jennie was an inmate at the State Hospital for the Insane for at least 20 years. She also remained married--not divorced nor widowed. Which means Mr. Eldridge and the four children had a mighty burden to bear. It would seem Mr. Eldridge remained true to Jennie and raised the children without the aid of a step-mother. So very sad to make what sounds like a happy start and end up there. Jolly Jolly.

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Diana and Jennifer

Swing on Valley Gate Farm. Photo by Rollin Cass, 1970

Diana and Jennifer...aging

Welcome to the Checkered Chicken!

January 1, 2011, I began this blog to transcribe my great-grandfather Allen Frank Cass' daily diaries in collaboration with my sister. Since that time, the Checkered Chicken has transformed into an online museum for our family's genealogical treasures. We hope as you read along you are reminded of your own family stories and encouraged to preserve your past for your future.

As always, this blog is dedicated to our ancestors and for all to enjoy.